The annual winter Populaire is one of my favorite events organized by the San Francisco Randonneurs: there’s always a big turnout with familiar and fresh new faces; it’s a scenic ride through Marin to Pt. Reyes Station (with an opportunity to stop at the Bovine Bakery for delicious treats); then you loop back along Nicasio Reservoir and end at Crissy Field for a gourmet picnic. And this year — since I didn’t ride a Populaire in 2014 — completing this event put me one step closer to obtaining a RUSA Cup. (All that’s left to do is to successfully finish the upcoming Sunshine 1200k in Florida…Then I can also guzzle beer out of it at the cool kids’ table!)Read More

Ever wonder what possesses randonnerds to pedal miles on end through long days and nights? Mesmerized by our classically styled steel bikes, wool jerseys and flashy neon hi-vis clothing? Then you should check out a populaire to learn more about this crazy sport. It’s a great way to dip your toes into long-distance riding with its (relatively short) introductory distance of 115k (71 miles). Read More